Chapter 4

Kiri's eyes fluttered open, the melodic chirping of birds and warm rays of late morning sunlight streaming through the cabin windows gently rousing her from slumber. She blinked, momentarily disoriented by the unfamiliar rustic yet luxurious surroundings of the spacious, resort-like cabin. An ornately carved wooden chandelier dangled from the high wooden beams stretched overhead and plush furs adorned the oversized couch where she lay.

As Kiri's gaze drifted downward, she startled at the sight of Monte's massive form curled up on the floor beside her, his damp fur glistening in the sunbeams. A large puddle of water surrounded his massive minotaur body, whose chest gently rose and dropped at a steady pace.

Memories of the harrowing night before came rushing back—her arrival, her injuries, and Monte carrying her to safety to beat the violent storm. She tentatively wiggled her limbs beneath the thick comforter, expecting to wince in pain, but felt only a deep, penetrating soreness.

With trembling fingers, Kiri peeled back the bandages, shocked to find angry bruises but no open wounds. Only her ankle remained painful and swollen. She released a shaky breath as she lowered her injured foot onto the pillow pile, unable to believe her current condition.

What happened after she'd blacked out? How had she healed so rapidly?

Monte let out a soft snort in his sleep, drawing Kiri's attention. She swiftly covered her mouth to stifle her laughter.

As she studied the magnificent beast, a newfound fondness blossomed in her chest. She noted the protective curl of his large, outreached hand and the furrow of concern between his brows, even in slumber.

"How can someone so large, be so gentle?" Kiri mused to herself, a small smile playing at her lips. She hardly believed this was the same fearsome minotaur she'd initially encountered; the one whose powerful hooves and sharp horns had instilled terror in her. Beneath that gruff exterior beat a loyal, caring heart—one that had somehow saved her life.

As Kiri lay back against the plush pillows, countless questions swirled in her mind about Monte and the events of the previous evening. She knew one thing for certain, though—her perceptions of the world and the misunderstood creatures in it would never be the same.

Humans were taught to fear and judge monsters by their appearance, and the fact that they were the unknown and bound to their island only added to the prejudices.

That was why she took on her contracted work—she wanted to prove to the world that monsters were misunderstood. And that humans could visit their land, and perhaps even coexist with them.

After all, humans already purchased goods from them through their eCommerce, even though it took a long time to arrive compared to human-made products.

Kiri studied the rugged contours of Monte's sleeping face, marveling at the unexpected tenderness in his expression. The fearsome minotaur looked almost peaceful, his dark fur glistening with remnants of the storm he'd braved for her sake. A lump formed in Kiri's throat as she considered the lengths he'd gone to in order to ensure her safety and recovery.

Monte stirred, his eyelids fluttering open to reveal warm, brown eyes that met Kiri's gaze. A sheepish smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he pushed himself up to a sitting position. "You're awake," he rumbled, his deep voice sending a shiver down Kiri's spine. "I was worried."

"Thanks to you," Kiri replied softly, her heart swelling with gratitude. "What happened last night? How did you...?" She trailed off, gesturing to her mostly healed injuries.

Monte ducked his head, a little embarrassed look tinged with pride. "I couldn't just leave you like that," he explained, his words slow and deliberate. "So I braved the storm, climbed to the top of the nearest mountain, and found the rare flower needed to make a healing tea. It wasn't easy, but..." He shrugged his huge shoulders. "I had to do it."

Kiri's breath caught in her throat as she processed what he'd said. He'd risked his own life, facing the elements and untold dangers, all to save her. A stranger and intruder to his land.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes as a wave of emotions crashed over her: awe, gratitude, and a growing sense of affection for the gentle giant before her.

"I don't know how to thank you," Kiri whispered, her voice thick with emotion. She reached out tentatively, placing her hand atop Monte's much larger one. "You saved my life."

Monte's gaze softened, and he carefully enveloped Kiri's hand in his own. His brow furrowed as he gazed down at their entwined hands, as if he were mindful of his immense strength. "You don't need to thank me," he rumbled, his thumb gently caressing her knuckles. "I'm just glad you're safe."

As they sat there in silence, hands entwined and eyes locked, Kiri felt something shift within herself. The barriers she had carefully built up over the years, the defenses she had used to shield herself from getting hurt by others, started to break down in what Monte had done…all for her.

They were mere strangers, and he was willing to risk his life to climb a mountain in the middle of a stormy night to find some flower.

Most people wouldn't do such a thing—especially for someone who'd crashed onto their property unannounced—and yet, here he was, genuinely concerned about her wellbeing.

And they weren't even the same species!

Perhaps she was right: there was more to this world—and the creatures that inhabited it—than she'd originally believed.

Just as Kiri opened her mouth to express her gratitude for what he'd done, a sharp knock shattered the moment. Monte rose to his hooves, ears back, his posture alert and protective as he moved to answer the door.

Kiri craned her neck, trying to catch a glimpse of the visitor. A lycan—a wolf-like monster capable of standing on their hind legs—with fur as white as snow and glowing emeralds for eyes, stepped into the cabin. Their arms were laden with a huge backpack and a messenger bag that clinked with the sound of glass vials. The lycan's gaze swept the room, taking in Kiri's bandaged form on the bed before settling on Monte.

"Lyall," Monte grunted, relief softening his posture in the doorframe.

"I came as soon as I could," the lycan said, her voice a melodic growl as she gazed around the minotaur, staring at Kiri with interest. "I'm Lyall, a healer from the Lone Lake Pack. May I?" She gestured toward Kiri, seeking permission to approach.

Monte nodded, stepping aside to allow the lycan entry.

With captivating elegance and agility, the silvery-white monster moved, a physique full of raw power and wild majesty unlike anything she'd seen before. She had heard about lycans and was excited to be assigned to visit her pack's village, but she'd never expected to meet one outside of their territory, especially here, inside a minotaur's cabin.

The healer set her bags down on the large terrarium center table with a soft thud and began to unpack a myriad of medical supplies; glass vials full with luminescent liquids, herbs that filled the air with an earthy aroma, and bandages neatly rolled.

Kiri watched fascinated as Lyall laid out an array of glimmering crystals around the corners of the table and her mixing bowls in the center. The healer's hands were gentle as she unwrapped Kiri's bandages, assessing the wounds beneath with a critical eye.

"How do you feel?" she asked, her voice lilting with a mild accent Kiri couldn't place—almost ancient.

Kiri startled. She hadn't expected to be addressed directly, and she eyed Monte, who stood behind the healer with watchful eyes. "I...umm…I've been better."

A low growl rumbled from Monte's throat, his dark eyes flashing with concern, worried gaze scanning her body. "Are you in pain? Should I get more valmora blooms?"

"No, it's all right," Lyall soothed softly, her fingers continuing their gentle exploration on Kiri's ankle. "The pain will fade with her marks and bruises. It's a good sign that she is regaining feeling."

As Monte relaxed, Kiri took in the sight of him. Dark fur matted and damp, clinging to his muscular form, horns gleaming ominously under the dim light. Yet his gaze was soft, his posture protective as he shifted his weight between his hooves.

"You've done well, Monte," Lyall murmured, glancing up at the towering minotaur. "The healing tea has worked wonders. But there's still much to be done."

"How soon can I walk again?" Kiri blurted out, flitting between Lyall and Monte.

Lyall's fingers probed Kiri's injuries with a feather-light touch, her jade eyes narrowed in concentration. Kiri winced as the healer examined her sprained ankle, a hiss of pain escaping her lips.

"I know it hurts," Lyall soothed, her voice soft and reassuring. "But you're healing remarkably well thanks to Monte's quick thinking. You'll need to stay off this foot for a while, though. No walking if possible."

Kiri nodded, biting her lip as she absorbed the healer's instructions. The thought of being bedridden, even in a place as comfortable as Monte's cabin, filled her with a sense of restlessness. She was used to being active, always on the move. The idea of being stationary, even for a short time, felt foreign and unsettling.

She was supposed to be working, not nursing an injury in the middle of nowhere, while needing to be dependent on monsters to care for her.

As if sensing her unease, Monte moved to Kiri's side, his presence solid and comforting. "You're safe here," he rumbled, his voice a deep, soothing balm. "I'll make sure you have everything you need."

"I'm sorry, Kiri." Lyall's brows furrowed at Kiri's discomfort, her hand freezing momentarily before proceeding with even greater caution. "A little more pain now for a quicker recovery later."

Before Kiri could respond, Lyall produced a crystal flask from her bag, the contents shimmering under the soft glow of the lanterns. She poured a viscous liquid onto her hands, warming it between her palms before applying it to Kiri's ankle.

The sensation was strange—sharp and soothing at once, like ice water on a scorching summer day. As Lyall massaged the ointment into her ligaments, an electric pulse rippled through her ankle. She inhaled sharply from the sudden tingling sensation.

Monte caught her eye as he stood nearby, his gaze filled with concern. His knuckles tightened as he gripped the edge of his chair, but he said nothing. Just watched.

Kiri gave him a small nod—an ‘I'm okay.' Monte's gaze softened, but his body remained tense. Sighing, Kiri turned her attention back to Lyall, interested in the healer's verdict about her injuries.

Somehow, the healer continued her work, unperturbed by the tension in the room from Monte's presence.

"I'll need some peace lily petals." Lyall finally broke the silence without lifting her gaze from Kiri's ankle. "They grow near the lake's water edge."

Without a word, Monte took off like a monster on a mission, following Lyall's orders and dashing out the front door. The door slammed open as his thunderous steps echoed away.

Kiri found her gaze trailing after him, noting the tension that still radiated from his broad shoulders despite their shared smiles. A tight knot formed in the pit of her stomach as she struggled with the unfamiliar emotions from his determined display.

"Hey." Lyall's voice broke through her thoughts softly. "I can tell that he cares about you," she continued, meeting Kiri's eyes with a knowing look. "Don't let your fear push him away."

Taken aback by the healer's comment, Kiri swallowed thickly. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Monte typically keeps to himself and doesn't leave his land often." The healer huffed, and her ears flared as she pinned Kiri with her all-knowing emerald gaze. "But no matter what, he can't keep himself from helping those in need. Even so, his reaction to your injury is more…hyper-aware…eager to help…than how he usually acts."

"I didn't plan any of this." Kiri gestured to her sprained ankle. "I was on my way to your land because the firm who hired me assigned me to interview your pack and make content. I was supposed to promote the wonders of the Monster Island mountains in hopes to inspire hikers and those who want to get lost in nature."

"The Moon Goddess works in mysterious ways…" Lyall chuckled softly as she began preparing a fresh batch of healing salve—her fingers deftly mixing herbs and oils together in a small wooden bowl. "Love rarely makes itself known until it has already rooted deep within our souls, dear Kiri."

"What do you mean?" Kiri's mouth dropped open in shock as she looked at the lycan healer. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Who said anything about love? We barely know each other!"

The silver lycan's chuckle sounded like a deeper version of a hyena's laughter. "You'll soon see."

Before Kiri was able to press farther, Monte barged in the same way he'd left—with thunderous steps filled with urgency—bearing an armful of what Lyall had requested: peace lilies.

Seeing him there, cradling the delicate white and pale yellow blooms as if they were the most precious of treasures, Kiri's heart fluttered in her chest. His eyes met hers, and he gave her a soft smile, as he gently laid the flowers on the center table.

"Perfect," Lyall murmured, her emerald eyes gleaming with satisfaction as she picked up one of the lilies. Her hands moved with practiced dexterity, crushing the petals and leaves into a thick paste in her wooden bowl. The scent of the lilies filled the room—sweet, yet subtly earthy.

"Don't move," Monte's gruff voice warned, his hand coming to rest on her shoulder just as Lyall lifted her foot and placed it on her propped knee. Carefully applying the paste, Lyall worked in silence; her brow furrowed in concentration as she spread it over Kiri's ankle. A cool, soothing sensation spread through the injured joint, numbing pain and bringing much-needed relief.

She then wrapped it with a fresh bandage—firm but not constricting, providing a reassuring pressure against Kiri's skin. All the while, Monte stood there like a silent guardian, his hand never leaving her shoulder, making her hyper-aware of his presence.

As Lyall finished up with a final securing knot, she placed her foot back on the pillow pile and stood , wiping her hands clean on a piece of cloth. "That should do it," she said finally, shooting Kiri an encouraging smile. "Now, is there anything else I can do for you?"

Kiri bit down on her lip as she mulled over her answer, questioning whether she should make such requests of the two monsters who had already done so much. As her gaze landed on Monte's worried face, his deep-set eyes stayed dark with concern. The weight of his hand lingered on her shoulder and something about the familiar touch bolstered her strength.

Taking a deep breath, she nodded. "Yes, there is something." Kiri flicked her gaze between the two watching her. "I...I left my stuff back up the mountainside," she admitted sheepishly, her eyes dropping to her hands in her lap. "My bag, my phone... and my rental jeep is dead, abandoned on the side of the road. I need to retrieve my things and get it fixed."

"That's risky, Kiri." Lyall's eyes widened in surprise before quickly narrowing in thought, casting a side-long glance at Monte who was already shaking his head. "You're barely able to walk. There's no way you'll be able to back track to gather your things."

Monte grunted affirmatively, his hand tightening slightly on her shoulder before letting her go. "I'll retrieve your belongings," Monte rumbled firmly, already at the door, pausing only long enough to glance over his shoulder. "And check on the vehicle and see what needs to be done."

Lyall shared a look with Monte and nodded before he left the cabin. Her glowing eyes twinkled with amusement as she returned her gaze to Kiri. "Don't worry, darling. You can stay here and we'll make sure you get it all taken care of."

Kiri settled back onto the pillows with a contented sigh. The pain in her ankle had subsided significantly thanks to Lyall's herbal paste.

She didn't know how long it would take Monte to return or if he would find everything she had lost, but somehow, she was already missing his presence even though he'd just left.

"Thank you so much for your help," Kiri remarked, pointing to her ankle. "I don't know what I would have done without you and Monte."

"It's my pleasure, Kiri." Lyall smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners as her tail swayed playfully. "Now, let's get you cleaned up and into some fresh clothes that I brought over. I can help you bathe and dress, if you'd like."

Kiri hesitated for a moment, but as she looked into Lyall's compassionate gaze, she found herself nodding, sensing nothing amiss. "I'd appreciate that, thank you."

As Lyall helped Kiri to the bathroom, she glanced down at her with a knowing smile playing on her lips. "You're in good hands with him, you know," she said softly. "He's lucky to have found someone like you."

Kiri felt a blush creep up her neck at Lyall's words. She'd never thought of herself as someone special, someone worthy of the kind of care and attention Monte had shown her.

"I hope he's able to find my things."

Lyall nodded with a reassuring smile. "I have no doubt he will."

Kiri couldn't argue with that. She had seen firsthand how Monte had gone above and beyond to gather whatever was needed for her. As much as she tried to deny it, she was grateful for his presence in her life.

She continued to allow herself to be tended to, the warm water soothing her aching muscles. Lyall's gentle hands helped her dress in a pair of baggy pants with a tail hole at the back and a tank top long enough that it came to her knees, making her feel as if she was wearing a tunic.

As the afternoon turned into evening, Kiri found herself dozing off on the couch in front of the fire while Lyall bustled around the cabin, preparing dinner and tending to her needs.

"Kiri." Lyall's soft voice woke her from her light slumber. "Dinner is ready whenever you're feeling up to it."

Kiri stretched her sore muscles before sitting up slowly with a grateful smile. Dinner was simple but delicious—a hearty stew with fresh vegetables and chunks of tender meat that melted in her mouth.

Lyall packed up and left, wishing to get home before the moon hung over the lake, and promised to check in on her in a few days, leaving Kiri alone to ponder when Monte would be home.

She sat on the edge of the couch, her fingers absently tracing the intricate patterns of the comforter as her mind replayed the events of what had happened to her since she'd arrived.

She had come to Monster Island for her social media job, seeking to show the world the truth about monsters and how humans could coexist with them.

Monte, in particular, had surprised her. Behind his gruff exterior and imposing presence, she had discovered a being of great depth and compassion. He had risked his own safety to save her, had tended to her wounds with a gentleness that belied his size and strength.

As she sat there, lost in thought, Kiri realized that her feelings toward Monte had shifted. The initial fear had given way to respect, admiration, and something else, something warm and fluttering that she couldn't quite name.

She thought back to the brief moments they had shared, the way his touch had sent shivers down her spine, the way his eyes had seemed to see straight into her soul. There was a connection there, a bond that had formed in her dire condition.

Had she hit her head too hard on the way down to make her feel this way?

How else could she wrap her mind around the fact that she had somehow stumbled down a mountain to land before the feet of a minotaur who had done nothing but be kind to her?

Kiri shook her head, a wry smile tugging at her lips. If someone had told her a week ago that she would find herself drawn to a minotaur, she would have laughed in their face. But now, as she sat in the quiet of Monte's cabin, surrounded by his scent and the tangible reminders of his care, she couldn't deny how comfortable she was,

She was alone, in not only some stranger's exotic cabin in the middle of the mountains, but a monster's home.

Kiri's gaze roamed around the room, taking in the rustic and enchanting charm of Monte's home. Nestled within the mountain's hidden heart, the cabin had been crafted with an expert, albeit massive, hand.

The grand stone fireplace pulled her attention first, its carved beauty stretching from floor to ceiling along the wall. An artful tapestry of rocks stacked upon each other—some smooth as pebbles by a riverbed, others jagged like uncut diamonds. It dominated her attention as the focal point of the room, its slab-like mantle supporting an array of curiosities—shells from some distant beach, a small collection of delicate blown glass figures, and an impressively large piece of driftwood that must've been carried by a monstrous tide.

The flames crackled and danced within it, painting the room in hues of orange and gold. She watched as shadows pranced across the intricate carvings etched into the mantle—images of many of the monsters that lived on Monster Island.

From her place on the plush couch—which was more like a bed given Monte's size—she could see the entire floor plan. It was open and spacious, making it feel less like a cabin and more like a lodge. Tall beams stretched high above, supporting a vaulted ceiling—each woven patterns of ivy and lilies.

In one corner stood an impressive kitchen area. It was well-equipped—with rugged pots and pans hung haphazardly on the walls, shelves filled with jars of herbs and spices, and state-of-the-art appliances, along with a three doored refrigerator.

Countertops were cut from polished stones flecked with silver veins that glittered when they caught the firelight. The wooden cabinets were filled with oversized kitchen items crafted from polished wood with metallic accents. A large cast iron cauldron hung over an unlit hearth in the corner, waiting to be used for a stew.

Despite the upscale amenities, the cabin retained a cozy, inviting feel, with oversized furniture and decor that seemed perfectly tailored to fit Monte's minotaur body. The windows were expansive, offering panoramic views of the lake down the hill and the scenic mountain valley beyond. The sight was breathtaking, with the tranquil waters of the lake reflecting the colors of the sunset, and the majestic peaks of the mountains towering in the distance.

Every detail of the cabin spoke of careful craftsmanship and attention to detail, giving it the feel of a well-crafted, resort-like vacation retreat deep in the woods. As Kiri gazed out at the natural beauty surrounding her, she felt a sense of peace and tranquility settle over her, grateful for the unexpected sanctuary Monte had provided.

With a contented sigh, she leaned back against the pillows, allowing herself to fall asleep, hoping when she woke that Monte would be home.

Suddenly, the cabin door burst open with a thunderous crash. Kiri jerked awake, hissing from the sudden movement of her ankle. Her heart pounded in her chest as Monte stormed in, his massive form filling the entrance. His arms were laden with her belongings, each carefully salvaged from her dramatic arrival at Monster Island.

His broad face was a grim mask of concentration, balancing the mountain of her items in his arms. His horns gleamed menacingly under the glow of the firelight as he strode across the wooden floor.

Monte carefully dumped her things onto the center table, making sure not to break them. He looked at her then, his eyes softening at the sight of her nestled in the plush warmth of his couch. The transformation was startling: from a fierce monster on a mission to a caring savior concerned about her condition within seconds.

The healer lycan's words echoed in her mind, about how attached he'd uncharacteristically become with her in such a short amount of time.

And yet—she couldn't deny that his presence was affecting her, making her feel things she had always been frightened to feel.

"Are you okay?" He examined the area and snorted, his tail whirling viciously and his hands curling into fists against his sides. "Where's Lyall?"

"She left a short while ago." Kiri shrugged, not seeing the problem. It was late and she was fine. "She said she needed to go home before it got dark."

He whirled her direction, and his gaze racked over her body. "She shouldn't have left you alone. Not when you're weak and injured."

"I'm not weak," Kiri grumbled, rolling her eyes and crossing her arms. "And I'm capable of caring for myself—"

"You were left alone. Unable to walk." Monte frowned. "You're under my responsibility until you leave. I refuse to allow you to injure yourself further under my watch."

"How much trouble can I get into napping?" She gestured to her current sitting up position. "I haven't done much of anything outside of sleeping all day."

"That's what you should be doing." Monte snorted and then relaxed, brushing back his long wild hair so it fell behind his horns. "Focus on resting while I provide you with whatever you need to make sure you heal as soon as possible."

"I can't just lie here while you're..." She gestured vaguely at the pile of her belongings on top of the center table. "Doing all this," she finished weakly.

"Didn't want you worrying 'bout your stuff," Monte said gruffly, rubbing his neck as he turned away. "Seeing how they were all spread out along the mountain side and left abandoned in the rental…I never realized how many things humans needed to care for themselves."

"Hey! I packed light!" Kiri grumbled. "Most of the items I brought with me were for my job. I wanted to be able to buy clothing and other souvenirs while I am here to bring back home with me."

Kiri's gaze fell to the items on the table: clothing, toiletries, even her favorite snack bars. The familiarity of these objects brought a sudden lump to her throat as she noticed her vidphone's blinking light.

How did she forget about her friend Margo? She must believe she'd been eaten by some feral monsters or something horrible had happened to her by her lack of communication.

She tried reaching for her vidphone and hissed in pain.

Monte swiftly retrieved the vidphone and handed it to Kiri, worry lines creasing his forehead. She accepted it with a sheepish smile and gave him a grateful nod. "Thank you."

She pressed the button to return the call and saw Margo's face pop up on the screen. Her friend's eyes widened in shock when she saw Kiri's face and Monte standing behind her.

"Kiri! Oh my god, are you okay? Where have you been? I've been trying to reach you!" Margo exclaimed, her voice filled with concern. "You never checked in with me when you arrived…Wait, weren't you supposed to be stationed at the lycan village?"

"I'm fine, Margo," Kiri reassured her friend. "Just had a little accident while exploring the mountains."

Margo's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Exploring the mountains? You never mentioned anything about doing something like that! I thought you were going to try to make it to your destination before the sun set?"

Kiri shrugged nonchalantly. "That was the plan."

"Well, obviously that didn't happen," Margo commented sarcastically. "I was starting to think you got lost or kidnapped or something crazy like that."

Kiri laughed at her friend's overactive imagination. "Nope, just some minor injuries that are already on the mend."

Margo shook her head in disbelief. "I'm assuming your new friend has been helping you?"

Kiri introduced Monte, explaining how he had saved her from falling down the mountain side and taken care of her injuries.

"And where are you staying?" Margo asked curiously with an eyebrow raised.

Kiri's smile faltered as she realized she didn't actually have a place to stay. She had been so caught up with her unexpected injury that she hadn't even thought about finding her way to the Lone Lake Pack to stay at the village's inn.

"She's staying with me at my cabin for the time being," Monte announced with a huff, gripping her shoulder. "I can carry her to the Lone Lake Pack to do business with them whenever she needs."

Margo's expression immediately turned into one of concern mixed with suspicion. "Kiri, are you sure that's a good idea? You barely know him."

Kiri felt a twinge of guilt as she saw the worry in Margo's eyes. She knew her friend was just looking out for her, but she also didn't want to come off as ungrateful toward Monte's help.

"I've known him long enough to trust him," Kiri assured Margo, shrugging again. "And besides, if I decided to stay at the inn, I wouldn't be able to be fully independent and would require strangers to aid me. I would rather stay here, as long as he'll allow, until I finish my contract."

She could tell that Margo still wasn't convinced but decided not to press the issue further.

"Well, just be careful, okay?" Margo said sternly before changing the subject. "So, have you had any luck seeing if your equipment works?"

Kiri released a sigh. "Not yet. But I will make sure I do so tomorrow because it's late and I'm not in the mood to sift through all my belongings."

"Fair enough." Margo rolled her eyes dramatically, tossing her curly hair over one shoulder. "Speaking of late, you'll never guess who owns the place where I'm staying."

"Who?"

"A naga," Margo revealed with exaggerated distaste, "and not the friendly kind. This one's got an attitude as long as his tail."

Kiri hid her face but couldn't help but chuckle at Margo's pinched expression, as if she'd been given something extremely sour. "That bad?"

"Worse!" Margo exclaimed dramatically. "The naga is constantly checking up on me, asking if everything's all right or if I need anything else. And his watchful gaze is just... unsettling." She let out an exaggerated sigh of exasperation, although Kiri noticed the slight twitch at the corners of her mouth that suggested Margo was secretly amused by the ordeal.

"What have you done to make him act like that?" Kiri chuckled quietly, imagining the fiery interaction between the upbeat Margo and the watchful naga. "Well, isn't he just doing his job?"

"Nothing!" Margo jerked both of her arms dramatically. "You got to believe me!"

Kiri shook her head, knowing how much her best friend loved getting into trouble…and pushing her limits when it came to others.

"His job is to run his inn, Kiri, not to babysit me," Margo countered with mock indignation, but then her expression softened. "But I suppose it's better than feeling alone, especially since we're amongst the few humans on Monster Island…"

A small smile played on Kiri's lips as she imagined the scene. "Sounds thrilling," she quipped, her voice heavy with sarcasm. "Especially compared to what I've been through."

"Oh, it is." Margo raised one eyebrow, a small smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "Imagine being stuck in one place with a giant serpent who's got a penchant for hovering! It's like living in a snake pit."

Monte, who had been silently observing their exchange, shook his head in amusement, his hearty laughter filling the room.

Kiri yawned widely, covering her mouth with one hand as she tried to stifle the tired sound.

"Enough chatter for tonight," Monte interrupted softly, his enormous hand moving down Kiri's arm, coming to a halt at her wrist with the hand holding the vidphone, sending shivers through Kiri. "You need to rest."

She nodded, surrendering to the weight of exhaustion that was slowly creeping over her. "All right, all right," she conceded sleepily. "I'm going."

"I better get going as well if I'm planning on waking up for the sunrise." Margo stretched, arms raised, and leaned back on her chair.

"I'll see myself out. Don't be a stranger."

"Don't get entangled with Mr. Naga," Kiri teased.

Margo jerked upright and growled. "Don't curse me."

They said their goodbyes and hung up.

Kiri let out another sigh as she leaned back and faced Monte. "Sorry about that," she apologized sheepishly, placing her vidphone on the side table. "I should have checked in with her sooner."

"There's nothing to apologize for."

Kiri reached out, her fingers brushing against Monte's hand. "I want to thank you," she said softly, locking her gaze with his. "For everything you've done for me."

Monte's gaze softened, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "There's no need for thanks either," he rumbled, his deep voice sending a shiver down Kiri's spine. "I did what anyone would have done."

But Kiri shook her head, her grip on his hand tightening. "No, you didn't. You went above and beyond, using your time, and risking your own safety to help me. I want to repay you somehow."

Monte's expression turned serious, his brow furrowing. "I don't need repayment, Kiri. Knowing that you're safe and recovering is enough for me."

Kiri's heart swelled at his words, the sincerity in his tone making her breath catch. "Please, there must be something I can do," she insisted, hating being in debt with him. "Let me show you how much I appreciate everything you've done."

A moment of silence stretched between them, Monte's eyes searching hers. Finally, he let out a soft sigh, his shoulders relaxing as his tail stilled. "If you insist on repaying me, then your companionship is all I ask for."

Companionship. The word hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. Kiri's gaze drifted lower, taking in the broad expanse of Monte's chest, the powerful muscles that rippled beneath his dark fur. She wondered what lay beneath his loincloth, her mind conjuring images of his hidden monster anatomy.

Heat rushed to her cheeks as she realized the direction her thoughts had taken. She quickly lifted her eyes back to his face, hoping he hadn't noticed her momentary distraction. "Companionship," she repeated, her voice slightly breathless as she licked her lips. "What exactly do you mean by that?"

Monte's eyes widened, his ears pinned back as he winced, a hint of embarrassment flashing across his features. He cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably behind the couch. "I meant your company, your friendship. Someone to talk to, to spend time with."

Kiri's heart raced, her skin tingling with a sudden, intense awareness of Monte's proximity. She knew she was treading on dangerous ground, but she couldn't seem to stop herself. They were from two different species; she didn't know anything about the relationships monsters had, especially minotaurs. "Is that all you want from me? Friendship?"

Kiri held her breath, waiting for Monte's response as the question hung between them.

Kiri's heart pounded in her chest as she anxiously waited for Monte's reply. She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, anxiety coursing through her body. Her eyes remained fixed on Monte, searching for any signs of his reaction.

Monte's gaze bored into hers, his expression unreadable. For a long moment, he said nothing, the silence stretching on until Kiri thought she might have the strength to get off of the couch unassisted and wobble away to the bathroom to hide.

Then, abruptly, he stepped away, his movements stiff and awkward.

"I should go," he mumbled, not meeting her eyes. "I need to clean up, to wash away the stench of the storm and the search party."

Kiri watched him go, her heart sinking as he turned his back to her and walked away. She flopped back against the pillows, confusion and disappointment warring within her. Had she pushed too far, crossed some invisible line?

She closed her eyes, replaying the moment in her mind. The heat in Monte's gaze, the way his body had tensed at her question. There was no denying the attraction that simmered between them, the unspoken desire that hung heavy in the air.

But Monte had pulled away, had retreated back and created distance between them—both physically and relationship wise. Kiri sighed, frustration mingling with a hint of shame. She had let her flirtatious side of her get her in trouble, and potentially harmed her newly formed friendship with Monte.

She knew she needed to be more aware of who—and what—she was speaking to. Even amongst other humans, sometimes others didn't understand what was happening, even after explaining everything to them.

She was flirting with fire and needed to cool off before she got burned.

As Monte lumbered down the hallway, his hooves thudding heavily against the hardwood floor, Kiri called out softly, "Monte, wait..."

He paused as he reached his door with his hand raised, his broad shoulders tensing beneath his sweat-dampened fur, but didn't turn around. Kiri swallowed hard, her heart racing as she searched for the right words. "Thank you," she said finally, her voice trembling with emotion. "For everything. I...I don't know what I would have done without you."

Monte's head dipped in acknowledgment, his voice gruff as he replied, "You're welcome." Then, with a deep breath, he stepped through the doorway and disappeared from view, leaving Kiri alone with her thoughts.

She sank back against the pillows, her mind reeling with the implications of what had just transpired. She had seen the desire in Monte's eyes, had felt the heat of his gaze as it lingered on her curves, and it had awakened a hunger within her that she had never known before.

But more than that, she had seen the vulnerability beneath his gruff exterior, the loneliness and isolation that he carried with him like a heavy burden. It made her want to reach out, to offer comfort and understanding, to show him that he wasn't alone.

Kiri sighed, her eyes drifting closed as exhaustion tugged at her consciousness. She knew that the road ahead would be challenging, that there would be obstacles and setbacks to overcome. But for now, she allowed herself to accept Monte's care, in the knowledge that she had found an unexpected ally on this trip and that she would make it up to him sometime…hopefully once she'd healed.

As she drifted off to sleep, Kiri's last thought was of Monte, of the way his gentle touch had soothed her aches and pains. And though her future was unknown, she knew one thing for sure: she was going to allow herself to fall…and hope that Monte would catch her. Again.